2020 Toyota Vios launched in the Philippines; price starts at RM 58,000

KUALA LUMPUR: Continuing its momentum for the year, the leading carmaker, Toyota revealed the 2020 updates of Toyota Vios after much teasing. The virtual launch of the sedan took place on the official Facebook page of Toyota Motor Philippines because it is destined for the Philippine market as of now. 

The new Vios sports a modern and improved exterior design with a cleaner, sleeker new front face, reminiscent of its elder siblings, the Corolla Altis and Camry. The earlier controversial big lower grille is now replaced by a downturned trapezoidal grille integrated with slimmer upper grille, edged by narrow air inlets and underlined by a body-colored spoiler. 

A new set of 3-tier headlamps, redesigned fog lights, and a new bumper complement the sedan's new look. The new headlights have L-shaped daytime running lights that replace the discrete LED strips. Other than these, the Vios' exterior remains the same, even the wheel design.

Inside the cabin, the refreshed Vios remains familiar, although Toyota has enhanced the top of the line models to give them a sportier feel. The Vios G variants now have a keyless entry and ignition system, power-folding side mirrors, Eco and Sport driving modes, and paddle shifters. 

The 2020 Toyota Vios also gets a new 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Weblink, USB, Aux, and Bluetooth connectivity and 6 speakers. However, it is available in higher models only as the base versions continue with the same 2-DIN unit.

Under the hood, the new Vios employs the same 1.3-litre and 1.5-litre naturally aspirated gasoline engines. The smaller engine produces 98 hp of power and 123 Nm of peak torque and comes mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. In contrast, the bigger one generates 106 hp and 140 Nm and does offer a 7-step Continuously Variable Transmission in addition to the standard 5-MT.

On the safety front, the new Toyota Vios is equipped with SRS airbags (ranging from 3 to 7), an anti-lock braking system with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, vehicle stability control, hill start assist and reverse camera.

With a starting price tag of Php 671,000 (RM 58,000), the 2020 Toyota Vios is now available for sale in the Philippines. About its Malaysian launch, nothing is confirmed at the moment, however, Toyota should think of this soon in the light of the upcoming Honda City and Nissan Almera.

Also read: Toyota GR Yaris is likely to hit Malaysian shores soon